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If you want to capture the attention of the most trend-setting generation, your merch has to do more than look cool—it has to feel current and intentional. Gen Z knows exactly what they like (and what they’ll immediately scroll past), so brands that win them over create products that blend style, function, and a little bit of fun. From campus-ready staples to everyday convenience boosters, these merch ideas tap into what this crew actually uses, wears, and shares.
Sustainability Matters More Than Ever
Gen Z is one of the most eco-aware consumer groups, and they’re quick to support brands that take sustainability seriously. For the best Gen Z favorite products, look for items made with recycled, organic, or low-impact materials, as well as items designed to last. Choosing merch that’s responsibly made isn’t just a bonus for this audience—it’s part of what makes a brand feel trustworthy, modern, and worth talking about.
So, what’s the best custom merch for Gen Z? Think products that are just as purposeful as they are aesthetically on point. This audience leans toward items that make daily life easier, while still showcasing their personal style. Whether it’s a practical tech accessory, branded apparel they’ll reach for again and again, or a clever upgrade to their routine, the ideas below check every box without trying too hard.
30 Fresh Merch Ideas Gen Z Is Loving Right Now
For the ultimate swag for Gen Z, we’ve curated a list of items that are modern, intentional, and totally worth showing off. Packed with trend-forward ideas—from everyday essentials like Gen Z shirt trends to clever lifestyle upgrades, these out of the box merch ideas are sure to please.
Use these products as inspiration to spark your next campaign, elevate your gifting program, or build an e-commerce or swag store that connects with how this generation lives, works, and plays. Whether you want something customizable, wearable, or simply cool enough to stand out, these ideas will help you create pieces people genuinely want to keep.
1. A Soft Hoodie
Who can resist a great hoodie? Definitely not us, or Gen Zers for that matter. Whether you choose to customize yours with a screen-printed logo on the front, back, or down the sleeve, or choose a bold pattern or even embroidery, don’t underestimate the power of a great fit. Look for features like kangaroo pockets or a sleek modern crop for your swag for Gen Z.
2. Custom Embroidered Hat
When you’re brainstorming business merch ideas for your Gen Z audience, personalized pieces that highlight your logo in a stylish, wearable way are always a smart move. A custom hat is one of the easiest ways to do that—especially when you elevate it with premium touches like embroidery, woven labels, or patches that add texture and dimension. These small details make your branding feel intentional, modern, and instantly more memorable.
Custom hats also have huge versatility. They’re great for influencers and creators who want photo-ready pieces for social content, and they work equally well for campus events, onboarding kits, retail drops, and giveaways.
3. Travel Bottle Sets
Did you know Gen Z has emerged as the sustainability generation? It’s true! According to the PaintedBrain.org, most of Generation Z prefers environmentally friendly brands—so much so, they’re willing to pay 10% more to buy sustainable items. Furthermore, 3 out of 4 Gen Zers prefer sustainability to brand names.
So, if you’re looking for really good merch ideas, eco-friendly swag items and gifts, like this stylish and reusable travel set from S’Well, are definite crowd pleasers! TSA carry-on approved, this set makes traveling easier and the bottles are made from durable, lightweight and recyclable aluminum for a win win!
4. Custom Laptop Sleeve
Not just any laptop case will do. When it comes to unique merch ideas targeted to Gen Z, think sleek, colorful and fun details. Talk to your Gemnote rep for ideas on how you can create a custom laptop sleeve that’s sure to get noticed!
5. A Custom Fanny Pack
Bring on the fun and the color! When it comes to matching your brand, there’s definitely a fanny pack just for your company! Talk to your Gemnote rep for color options, customizing ideas and more to bring your cool merch ideas to life!
6. Fashion Forward Tees
Gen Z items don’t have to be over-priced or hard to create. Just look for features like soft fabrications, cool branding, and more for the best merch items. Tee shirts also make excellent band merch display ideas and can even be designed in unisex styles for more cost savings.
7. A Selfie Ring Light
As you probably know, good lighting is everything! As for capturing that perfect pic every time? Don’t leave lighting to chance! When it comes to unique custom merch Gen Z will love, a ring light is known for staying in the spotlight.
8. Customizable Socks
Branded merch ideas shouldn’t blow your budget. That’s one reason socks make excellent merch ideas for small business companies. For the best pairs, look for features like soft organic cotton and make sure you create custom promotional merch ideas that match your brand.
9. Reusable Totes
Custom reusable totes make for some of the best merch items. Plus, they’re another environmentally friendly and cost saving option that’s sure to please not just your Gen Z audience but other generations as well! Just look for styles like these from Baggu that are lightweight and compact for shipping and can be customized to show off your brand.
10. A Customized Knit Hat
Beanies, ski hats, knitted hats… whatever you call them, one thing is for sure… they are just as functional as they are fun to brand! And when it comes to your Gen Z promotional merch ideas, it’s an easy win!
11. Mini Speaker
Equipped with a compact yet powerful Bluetooth speaker, you can ensure your recipient enjoys uninterrupted music nearly around the clock. Opt for a sleek option like the Mino + Alu speaker by Lexon, offering a choice of 15 vibrant colors to suit any style.
12. A Stanley Flowstate Tumbler
For cool merch ideas that anyone—not just your Zoomer audience—will appreciate, the Stanley Flowstate Tumbler is a standout pick. If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s the tumbler that took over social feeds, sold out repeatedly, and sparked a full-blown internet frenzy. The hype isn’t accidental: it’s dishwasher safe, BPA free, super durable, fits in most car cup holders, and is known for keeping drinks icy cold for hours, if not days. Like the idea of customizable drinkware? There's a ton more where this came from.
13. Personalized Keychain
For the best custom merch that’s fun, functional, and in your budget, think keychains! Available in shapes, sizes and styles for every brand, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to delighting your recipient! Need more inexpensive merch ideas? Talk to your Gemnote rep for more great options.
14. Branded Backpack
Branded backpacks make for the best merch ideas! Whether you sell them in your store, on your site, or offer them to your employees in a swag store, they’re just as functional as they are enviable! And, with the right style and branding, the same is true for your Gen Z audience!
In addition to being a favorite among Zoomers, backpacks also make a great addition to your Employee Onboarding Kit.
15. The Perfect Tech Accessory
Gen Z loves tech, convenience, and anything that makes life easier—so portable, functional merch always hits the mark. That’s why merch that delivers portability, functionality, and a little novelty always lands. This PopSocket + card holder combo is a perfect example—sleek, practical, and designed to snap onto their phone or wallet with MagSafe convenience. It’s an easy everyday upgrade and exactly the kind of clever merch that gets used, not tossed.
16. Branded Stickers
Want to turn everyday business merch ideas into out-of-the-box merch ideas your Gen Zers won’t soon forget? Stickers are fun, inexpensive, and easy-to-create! Plus with the right design, you can create enviable Gen Z swag with major sticking power! Perfect for adding to custom tumblers, laptops, and more!
17. A Cool AirPod Charging Case
If you’re exploring fresh diy band merch ideas or simply want a tech accessory Gen Z will use daily, a custom AirPod case checks every box. It keeps their earbuds protected, easy to find, and ready for every playlist, podcast, or study session. With plenty of colors and customization options, it’s a small upgrade that makes a big impact—perfect for anyone who wants to stay connected in style.
18. Colorful, Custom Napkins
Instead of single-use napkins, elevate your merch with reusable options your Gen Z audience will actually appreciate. They’re a simple, sustainable swap that cuts down on waste while adding a pop of personality to desks, kitchens, dorms, and outdoor hangouts. With endless colors, patterns, and materials to choose from, finding the perfect style to showcase your brand becomes part of the experience. Want ideas that blend sustainability with great design? Talk to your Gemnote Rep for even more customizable home ideas!
19. Cool Crewneck Sweatshirt
What’s the secret to fantastic corporate apparel? Beyond outstanding features—which are undeniably crucial—it's your company's branding that truly matters and sets your items apart. So think outside of the box, with personalization down the sleeve or pairings like matching socks or totes that will keep your Gen Z recipient talking long after they receive their custom merch.
20. Wireless Charging Bank
A wireless power bank is the kind of practical tech Gen Z actually uses daily. It keeps their devices charged on the go without the need for cables, as in no stress, just smart swag. Plus branded power banks continue to be a top swag idea.
21. Custom Slides
Custom slides are a Gen Z must-have: comfy, casual, and perfect for everything from summer outings to weekend errands. Branded thoughtfully, they become a crowd-pleasing addition to onboarding kits, event gifts, or warm-weather campaigns. See more summer swag and giveaway ideas →
22. Compostable Towels
Compostable towels are a smart, sustainable merch idea that speaks directly to Gen Z’s eco-minded values. Practical, planet-friendly, and perfect for on-the-go use.
23. Bucket Hat
Bucket hats are still having their moment, blending laid-back style with total wearability. Add your logo or pattern for an instant street-ready accessory.
24. Canvas Tote
Canvas totes are the unofficial Gen Z carry-all: eco-friendly, endlessly reusable, and easy to style. They make your branding part of their everyday routine.
25. Wide Mouth Water Bottle
A wide-mouth water bottle makes staying hydrated easy and stylish. It’s simple to clean, perfect for ice, and offers plenty of room for branded decals.
26. Ripstop Backpack
A ripstop backpack is lightweight, durable, and built for real life—commutes, classes, and weekend trips included. With the right branding, it becomes a daily go-to.
27. Logo Sweatpants
Branded swag pants hit the sweet spot of comfort and trend—ideal for remote work, gym sessions, or just living their best cozy life. Gen Z loves anything that pairs comfort with style.
28. Enamel Pins
Enamel pins are small, collectible, and perfect for personalizing bags, jackets, and totes. They’re an easy way to turn your branding into a fun, expressive accessory.
29. Valet Tray
Who wouldn’t appreciate a sleek catch-all that does double duty, holding small accessories while also charging your phone? It’s a smart merch choice for your Gen Z audience.
30. Mesh Shorts
Mesh shorts make great Gen Z merch ideas thanks to their comfort and practicality. From remote work and lounging to hitting the gym, with the right branding, your swag goes everywhere they do.
How to Customize Merch Gen Z Will Love
Once you’ve narrowed down your merch picks, the next step is customizing them in a way that feels intentional, stylish, and aligned with Gen Z’s taste. This generation gravitates toward designs that are clean, modern, and easy to wear or use every day, so it’s important to remember that thoughtful branding goes a long way. Minimalist logos, bold color pops, tone-on-tone embroidery, and playful typography are all smart ways to make your merch stand out without overwhelming the piece itself.
When it comes to decoration, choose customization techniques that elevate the product rather than distract from it. Screen printing, embroidery, patches and tags, laser engraving, and debossing are all popular options that create a polished, premium feel. Matching your brand’s Pantone colors or leaning into trending palettes—like muted neutrals, warm earth tones, or nostalgic Y2K shades—can make your merchandise even more eye-catching. If you’re aiming for extra personality, consider custom packaging, eco-friendly add-ons, or a short tagline that captures your brand’s vibe. And if you need help choosing the right decoration method or design direction, your Gemnote Rep can recommend options that fit your aesthetic, your budget, and your timeline. See why Gemnote is also the best supplier for for events, conferences, and giveaways too.
More out-of-the-box merch ideas
With so many trends to keep up with, choosing the right merch for Gen Z can be tough. If you’re looking for even more inspiration—whether it’s shirts, accessories, tumblers, tech, or standout lifestyle pieces—this roundup is just the start. Your Gemnote Rep can help you discover what’s trending now, customize pieces that fit your brand, and build memorable swag kits for customers, employees, events, and everything in between. Plus, with access to 1,000+ global suppliers like The North Face, Baggu, and Nike, there’s no shortage of options at your disposal. Choose what suits your budget and impresses your target audience the most. Explore the Lookbook for more fresh ideas or contact us for a curated list of recommendations.
